OASD applies mental health bandaid through February time away

After a messy variety of virtual and in-person semesters, the transition back to ‘normal’ has created an immense amount of stress on both staff and students. Whether it’s from a big exam or simply from coming to school every day, school administration realized that something needed to be done. Responding to concerns surrounding the mental health of students and staff, there will be no school on February 17 and 18 for students and staff for the purpose of self-care. 

Maintaining a stable mental state is crucial to continue through life, but it is also important for someone to look after their wellbeing.

“We always stress how important mental health is and self-care. Right now, our staff and some of our students don’t even have time for self-care because there’s just so much to do,” Principal Erin Kohl said.

Although the main focus for the two days off in February is for mental health, there are many benefits students can earn from it.

“It’s also a really good opportunity for students who are maybe feeling overwhelmed because they are a little bit behind and they were maybe out for a couple of weeks,” she said. “It would be a chance for them to do a little catching up on homework so that they can go into the following week feeling really good about where they are at.” 

Even though including mental health days will support necessary self-care for students and staff, there are more ways one can seek help in the school. 

“We have a huge pupil’s service team and five counselors, a social worker, and a school psychologist,” Kohl said.

Other precautions are starting to take place around the school to help better students’ mental health, such as the wellness screening which takes place every year. The mental health screenings are able to provide students with help if they want and/or need it. 

Since this year in particular has been more challenging than before due to the change back into normal school routine, having days off can contribute to better mental health in students and staff. It is crucial for students to prioritize their mental wellbeing and seek help if needed.

By Sydney Maki

Oshkosh West Index Volume 118 Issue 4

January 31st, 2022